Farm Hand

Kiani Preserve is seeking a motivated Farm Hand to assist with daily ranch operations in Santa Ynez, CA. Responsibilities include preparing garden beds, sowing and transplanting crops, watering seedlings, pruning, harvesting, and monitoring crop health. Candidates should have a strong interest in organic farming and be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions. This is a full-time position with a pay range of $18.00 - $22.00 per hour.
Job Overview:

We are seeking a motivated and hardworking Farm Hand to assist with daily operations on our ranch. The ideal candidate will be passionate about sustainable farming practices and eager to contribute to the success of our crops and overall farm maintenance. This role requires hands-on work in the garden, greenhouse, and orchard, with a focus on organic farming techniques.

Key Responsibilities:

- Turn and Prepare Garden Beds: Prepare soil for planting by turning and amending beds.

- Sow/Transplant/Direct Seed Crops: Sow seeds, transplant seedlings, and direct seed crops into the ground as needed.

- Water Seedlings: Maintain proper hydration of seedlings by monitoring and adjusting water needs.

- Prune/Trellis/Deadhead/Mulch Crops: Prune plants, set up trellises, deadhead flowers, and apply mulch for crop health and productivity.

- Harvest: Harvest fruits, vegetables, and other crops efficiently and carefully.

- Weed Management: Regularly weed garden beds to ensure the health of crops.

- Apply Ground Soaks/Foliar Sprays/Amendments: Administer organic fertilizers, amendments, and foliar sprays to support plant growth and pest management.

- Compost Management: Tend to vermicompost systems and manage compost windrows/piles to support soil health.

- Assist in Pest/Disease Monitoring: Spot and identify pests and diseases, reporting issues to the farm manager.

- Monitor Crop/Tree/Orchard Health: Help monitor the health of crops and trees in the orchard, reporting any concerns.

- Soil Condition Monitoring Regularly assess soil conditions and help maintain soil health.

- Basic Irrigation System Maintenance: Assist with minor repairs and upkeep of the irrigation system to ensure water efficiency.

- Basic Record Keeping: Maintain accurate garden records, including planting schedules and crop health updates.

- Organize and Clean Workspaces: Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the garden barn, greenhouse, and other work areas.

- Tool Maintenance: Perform basic maintenance and care of farm tools and equipment.

Qualifications:

- Prior experience in farming or gardening is preferred but not required.

- Strong interest in organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices.

- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physical labor.

- Basic knowledge of gardening tools and maintenance is a plus.

- Good observational skills to spot plant health issues early.

- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Physical Requirements:

- Ability to lift 25-50 pounds regularly.

- Comfortable standing, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.

- Capable of working in varying weather conditions (sun, rain, heat, cold).

Benefits:

- Hands-on experience with organic farming practices.

- Opportunity to learn and grow within a sustainable agriculture environment.

-Paid time off and sick pay.

If you have a passion for organic farming and enjoy working in a dynamic outdoor environment, we encourage you to apply!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:
• Paid time off

Schedule:
• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:
• Organic farming: 1 year (Required)
• Gardening: 1 year (Required)

Language:
• English (Required)

Ability to Relocate:
• Santa Ynez, CA: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person